Brawl At Monmouth University Football Players Home Lands 2 Students In Jail
Police seek public's help in ongoing investigation of assault and property damage
Reports of a mass brawl at an Atlantic Avenue residence over the weekend resulted in the arrest of two Monmouth University student football players, according to a Deal Police Department news release.
Christian Runza Jr, 20, of Norwood, was charged with disorderly conduct, maintaining a nuisance, providing alcohol to underage persons, and borough ordinance violations for underage consumption of alcohol on private property and littering.
Michael Christ Jr, 21, of Sterling, VA, was charged with disorderly conduct, maintaining a nuisance, providing alcohol to underage persons, and a borough ordinance violation for littering.
According to the news statement, police responded near 12:24 a.m. Sunday morning to 23 Atlantic Ave where a large Monmouth University party was underway, officials said. A number of students were observed fleeing the scene.
From the news release:
Officers were advised that a group of approximately 30 individuals that were denied entry into the home proceeded to vandalize several motor vehicles in the area. Officers from Ocean Township, Long Branch and Allenhurst assisted Deal Officers in clearing the home of approximately 200-300 attendees. While officers were attempting to clear the home, several other small fights broke out and were brought under control. This party was occurring at the off-campus home of members of the Monmouth University Football Team. Numerous attendees were very uncooperative towards officers on scene and fled the location.
Officials said the assaults, criminal mischief to the vehicles that were parked in the area, and other violations remain under investigation. Surveillance footage is being reviewed and the local police department is working in cooperation with Monmouth University’s on campus police, officials said. They are asking anyone with information pertaining to the incident call headquarters at (732) 531-1113.
Runza and Christ were released on summonses, pending a future court date.
Deal Sgt Nick Vaccaro and Patrolmen Brad Kerney and Christopher Mirrione responded.
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